Jacksonville, FL

The Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens is a top attraction, located about a 20-minute drive from the port. It features an extensive collection of art spanning from 2100 B.C. through the 21st century, set alongside beautiful historic gardens on the St. Johns River.

For wildlife enthusiasts, the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens is only a 15-minute drive from the cruise terminal. The zoo is known for its award-winning exhibits, such as the Range of the Jaguar, and offers a large collection of animals and botanical gardens.

Another unique animal experience is the Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary, a non-profit dedicated to endangered big cats. Located about 20 minutes from the port, it offers guided tours to see tigers, lions, pumas, and other rescued felines.

St. Augustine, the nation's oldest city, is a very popular day trip located approximately 40 miles south of the port, about a 45-60 minute drive. It features historic colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and the impressive Castillo de San Marcos.

To the north, about a 30-40 minute drive, is Amelia Island and the charming Victorian seaport of Fernandina Beach. This area offers beautiful beaches, a historic downtown district with unique shops and restaurants, and Fort Clinch State Park.

The JAXPORT Cruise Terminal is located at 9810 August Drive, north of the city center and situated in an industrial area along the St. Johns River. It is approximately 10 miles, or a 15-20 minute drive, from downtown Jacksonville.

There are no shops, restaurants, or attractions within walking distance of the terminal, so transportation is required to explore the city. Cruise ships dock directly at the pier, and tendering is not used.

The official currency is the United States Dollar (USD). US Dollars are the only currency widely accepted. Foreign currencies are not accepted in shops or restaurants.

Major credit cards such as Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are accepted almost everywhere. ATMs are widely available throughout the city in banks, shopping centers, and convenience stores for cash withdrawals.

Jacksonville is generally safe for tourists, particularly in the main tourist districts and attractions during daylight hours. As with any large American city, it is wise to be aware of your surroundings, avoid displaying expensive valuables, and secure your belongings.

It is generally safe to explore popular areas like the beaches, St. Johns Town Center, and museum districts independently. The downtown area can become quiet after business hours, so exercising normal caution at night is recommended. Sticking to well-populated and well-lit areas is the best practice for a safe visit.

Jacksonville has a humid subtropical climate. Cruise season, which is year-round, sees varied weather. Summers (June-September) are hot and humid with daily highs often in the low 90s°F (around 33°C) and frequent afternoon thunderstorms.

Winters are mild and pleasant, with average highs in the mid-60s°F (around 18°C). Spring and autumn offer comfortable temperatures and less rainfall. Visitors should pack light clothing, sunscreen, and sunglasses year-round, with a rain jacket for the summer and a light sweater or jacket for cooler winter evenings.

It's important to note that the Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1st to November 30th, which could potentially impact cruise itineraries.

Transportation is necessary to leave the port area, as there are no attractions within walking distance. The most convenient options for cruise passengers are taxis and ride-sharing services, which are readily available at the terminal.

The Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) operates the city's public bus system, but routes from the cruise port to tourist areas are often indirect and not practical for visitors on a limited schedule. The Jacksonville Skyway is an automated people mover, but it only serves a small loop within the downtown area and does not connect to the port. Renting a car is also an option, with several agencies available in the city.

The premier shopping destination is the St. Johns Town Center, a large, upscale outdoor mall located about a 20-25 minute drive from the port. It features a wide range of national retailers and department stores.

For more unique, local shopping experiences, visitors can explore the boutiques and galleries in the historic neighborhoods of San Marco or Avondale. A regional specialty to look for is Datil pepper hot sauce, a sweet and spicy condiment popular in Northeast Florida. Prices in retail stores are fixed and not open to negotiation.